Country of Origin:

Breed Group:

Size:

Coat:

The American Water Spaniel boasts a lustrous double coat, which is distinctive and climate resistant.

Color:

Solid Liver, Brown, or Dark Chocolate

Life Span:

12 to 15 years

Breed Profile

Affection Level

Barking Tendencies

Cat Friendly

Cold Weather Tolerance

Exercise Needs

General Health

Grooming Needs

Hot Weather Tolerance

Intelligence

Kid Friendly

Playfulness

Shedding Level

Social Needs

Watchdog Ability

Did You Know?

This curly cutie is an excellent swimmer!

Summary:

The American Water Spaniel was bred to be a hunting dog specialized in waterfowl. Because of this he is a very skilled swimmer and has a water-resistant coat that offers him a great protection. This dog breed has high levels of energy and loves the chase and retrieve game however if given enough exercise, he can become a perfect family companion. The average height of an American Water Spaniel is 1 foot, 3 inches to 1 foot, 6 inches weighing about 25 to 45 pounds. They have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Overview:

The American Water Spaniel also known as “The State Dog of Wisconsin” was bred to be a retriever but he can also be a great companion. He really loves his daily exercise being so active and energetic. If you want a great hunting dog or a very active companion dog this might be the perfect dog for you. The American Water Spaniel enjoys swimming, long walks in the park and any type of activity that you can think of. The thing that he doesn’t love is having no activity so make sure you keep him busy as much as you can.

This dog breed is loyal, energetic, obedient and persistent. The breed is generally gentle with children and other pets, but tends to be aggressive toward dogs they do not know. This breed makes a perfect household pet. If correctly introduced, they are also pleasant with strangers. They tend to be “one-person” dogs and will generally bond more with one member of the household.

American Water Spaniel Activity & Training:

This type of breed can learn new commands at an average rate. He is an excellent watchdog, but is prone to excessive barking. Many of them “yodel” when excited. Obedience training is a must and a special attention should be focused towards his barking. They love attention but are fully able to create their own entertainment.

They are slow to mature and will only properly settle into a training program at about two years of age. Nonetheless, this breed does require intensive socialization at an early age. The American Water Spaniel can be challenging to house train and the crate method is highly recommended. This dog breed has a sensitive nature and does not respond well to harsh or heavy-handed training methods. If harshly disciplined, they may develop “fear-biting”. It is crucial that training be performed with patience, love, respect, consistency and fairness.

This dog breed requires an above average amount of physical exercise. They love to swim and hunt. They are known roamers. A daily walk or run is recommended. This breed generally adapts well to apartment living, provided they receive sufficient exercise and attention, but prefers a home in the country setting with room to run.

American Water Spaniel Groomimg:

This breed requires a fair amount of care. Brushing twice a week is required and an occasional bath may be necessary. Bathing should be kept to a minimum to preserve the coat’s pure oils and a mild shampoo should be used. Professional clipping of the coat is advisable to maintain it. This dog breed has generally remained free from genetic health issues, but they are prone to pore and skin problems.

This type of dog doesn’t require any special attention than other dog breeds. Brushing a few times a week needs to be done to get rid of the extra hair and keep it tangle-free. Also try to reward him with something every time when he does something right, this will make him very happy.

American Water Spaniel History:

This breed is most commonly referred to as the AWS. During the 18th century, the American Water Spaniel was used on farms for hunting, mainly in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are one of the few breeds fully developed in America and are thought of a uncommon breed. Outside of the United States, the American Water Spaniel is virtually unknown. The American Water Spaniel was designated as Wisconsin’s official state dog in 1986.